Here’s a quick guide to how long it takes to start seeing results from the different ingredients in skincare:
⏱ AHA, glycolic and lactic acids, BHA and salicylic acids – straight away, with benefits peaking at 12 weeks
⏱ Hyaluronic acid – a few minutes
⏱ Niacinamide – 12 weeks
⏱ OTC retinol – 3 – 6 months
⏱ RX retinol – 6 – 8 weeks
⏱ Vitamin C – 3+ weeks
⏱ Botanical lighteners (ie kojic, licorice, alpha-arbutin etc) – 6 – 12 weeks